Where were you born and raised? I was born in New York City and raised in Mount Kisco, New York, a village of approximately 12,000 people located an hour north of the city. My father was an oral surgeon, and my mother was a pediatric nurse. Both were active volunteers in our community.
What did you want to be when you grew up? I grew up with a strong connection to the medical community. My first volunteer role was in our local community hospital. I made the decision to become an Occupational Therapist when I was in high school. I believe that serving in health care is both a calling and a privilege. I have been fortunate to have served the community of southeast Wisconsin for over 40 years.
What is your formal education? I received my undergraduate degree in Occupational Therapy from Washington University in St. Louis. I interned in adolescent and adult mental health as well as pediatric rehabilitation. It was my mental health internship that brought me to Wisconsin. My graduate degree is in Administrative Leadership and Adult Education from the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee. I was granted an honorary Nursing Degree by the Columbia College of Nursing.
Tell us about your family? Scot and I will celebrate our 37th wedding anniversary this September. His mother, sister, and brother-in-law all live here in Mequon. I am the oldest of three children. My sister’s family lives in New Hampshire, and my brother’s family lives in New York.
How do you spend your time now that you are retired? Scot and I both love to travel, visiting over 30 countries and have been fortunate in the many adventures that we have experienced. As many of you know, Scot is a beekeeper and has engaged me in his hobby! In conjunction with my love of gardening, we have a shared interest in pollinators and nature activities. We like visiting Wisconsin parks, hiking trails, and kayaking the waterways.
I have been an active community volunteer since I was 14. It has been both an evolving and continuous part of my life. In retirement, my volunteer activities have brought me closer to our community. I am honored to be a member of the Boards of Directors for the Mequon Thiensville Community Foundation and the Southern Ozaukee Fire and Emergency Services Department. Over the next two years, I anticipate a significant time commitment to developing the Rotary All-User Playground.